Mother Nature gives us a break
Commentary by Randy Sorrell
Let these modest words be the inspiration
you may require to finally get the “spring cleaning” accomplished in the landoutdoors scape beds. Fortunately Mother Nature has provided a little
grace this year with cloudy, cooler temperatures
and later bloom cycles. The ornamental grasses
have yet to green up, which means we still have
a little time to dirty our fingernails.
First, I like to start with cleaning the gutters
so resulting debris is removed before mulching.
Then, go for any larger debris that has likely accumulated in the beds.
Second, focus on severely pruning overgrown
shrubs that need fit back into the landscape
using heavy loppers or long blade pruners. Reblooming roses, spirea, viburnum, potentilla and
forsythia are ideal candidates for this rejuvenation and often behave like vigorous new shrubs
filled with enthusiasm. Cut ornamental grasses
back to the ground with electrical or gas powered hedge trimmers and snip back last year’s

perennials with hand pruners.
Third, it’s amazing what a freshly cut edge on
landscape beds can do for crisp appearance. A
sharp, straight edged spade is required for this
heart-pounding task. Then complete a detailed
cleaning of the beds.
Finally, the fun begins. Carefully apply the
appropriate fertilizer (all purpose 12.12.12 with
a separate flowering shrub fertilizer on those
jewels) and pre-emergent weed control. Mulch is
the most important component of the process,
and I get ridiculously choosy about the type of
product. Ask for premium mulch with no fillers
of ground up railroad ties, pallets or sand. If you
have not tried the brown or black color enhanced
mulch, give it a shot. It holds its color all year!
This process will set you up for a low-maintenance season of healthy plants and sharp beds.

Please join us to honor
National Child Abuse Prevention Month
Come hear the journey of local
survivors of child sexual abuse

Presenting Sponsor:

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 I 7:30 – 9:00 am
Ritz Charles I 12156 N. Meridian Street I Carmel
A Continental Breakfast will be provided
There is no charge to attend this event.
Donation envelopes will be available
and the courtesy of a contribution
to Chaucie’s Place is most appreciated.
R.S.V.P.
at chauciesplace.org/rsvp-form